Styling a Christmas Tree: Tips From a Designer

The holidays are almost here! If you're like us, you've been waiting for this moment all year long. You want everything to be perfect. You want that tree to be just right. And we're here to help.

We've rounded up the best tips on how to style your Christmas tree to make it look more ✨ designer ✨ this year, with embedded links to a few of our favourite pieces.

Choose the perfect tree.

If you're going the real tree route, make sure you pick one that's fresh, healthy, and not damaged.

Don’t want the headache of a real tree? There are a ton of great faux Christmas tree options on the market these days. Just be sure to pick one that is on the fuller side, and fluff the branches individually each time you take it out of storage to make it look more realistic.

Select a colour palette and decorations that will work within it.

This year, we’re seeing a lot of palettes using burgundies, greens, browns, blues; even black and white. But your palette doesn’t have to change year to year if you don’t want it to. Stick to the colours that you love, or work with what you already have at home.

Add ribbons.

Go to your local craft store and pick up some ribbon in a colour or material of your choice. We’re a big fan of velvet, jute, silk or satin. You can tie the ribbon in bows or in knots on the tip of the branches, or you can wrap the ribbon around the tree and tuck it in (also known as the ‘waterfall’ or a ‘cascading ribbon’ effect).

Pro tip: if you opt for bows or knots, tie the first one onto the tree before cutting so that you can ensure it will be the right length. Then, untie it and cut the rest to fit your template. If your tree is fake, you may want to tie it on tightly enough to save yourself this step next year. 😉 Work smarter, not harder.

Jenna Sue Design

Add lights.

Though colourful lights can be nostalgic, white lights will complement any palette much better. If you just can't resist those sentimental coloured lights, we suggest buying strands that allow you to switch between both coloured and white modes depending on your mood. We also recommend these clip-on candle lights for a more nostalgic feel.

Be sure to plug the lights in and make sure they’re all working properly prior to placing them on the tree.

Chris Loves Julia

Add garland.

Layering in multiple types of garland in various tones and textures will create dimension. Think: wooden and metallic, thick and thin. We suggest using two different strands.

Add filler.

Layer in branches, leaves, berries, dried fruit or florals to fill in any holes. A few of our favourites? Dried babies breath, dried magnolia leaves, large pinecones, or dried oranges. We prefer more realistic, natural pieces, but a nice way to add a little extra sparkle is by placing any tinsel or glittery filler next to one of the tree lights to really make it shine.

Kate Marker Home

Hang your foundational ornaments evenly around the tree.

The base of your tree is done! Now comes the fun part—hanging your ornaments. You can use a variety of shapes and sizes if you wish, but we’d suggest sticking to a maximum of three colours in your palette or sticking to a monochromatic look.

Add the statement pieces.

We know… you’ve accumulated an impressive collection of ornaments over the years. But they don’t all need to make an annual appearance on your tree. Carefully select those statement ornaments (or the ones that mean the most to you and/or your family) to showcase. Swapping out ornaments in your collection will ensure that your tree feels a little different and less tired from year to year.

Studio McGee

Don't be afraid to mix styles.

For example, ornaments with organic textures, such as wood, will give the tree a more rustic vibe. Ornaments with materials like metallics, velvets or glass will give the tree a luxe vibe. Using both styles together will make the tree feel more layered.

We personally really love adding in a few old-school elements, such as an antique bell.

Finishing touches.

Add your tree topper: a star, an angel, or whatever you prefer. Don’t forget to wrap a tree collar, tree skirt or any old blanket around the bottom of the tree—we prefer white to mimic snow. Then snap a pic for the ‘gram, curl up by the fireplace with a well-deserved cup of hot cocoa and marvel at your fabulous creation.

Stoffer Home

Inspiration just not cutting it? We’re here to help you.

We’ll work within your needs, tastes, and budget to develop a custom design plan that is uniquely tailored to you and the story you want to tell, regardless of where you’re located. Schedule a discovery call now and embark on a journey of inspired living.

This post was originally published on December 8, 2022, and has since been edited. Contains commissionable links.
. Featured image source: Boutique Retreats.